The people of Bil'in commemorated the Nakba day

Today, 13th of May 2011. About  200 Palestinians, Israelis and internationals marched

together towards the Wall. Some had dressed up as refugees from 1948,

to commemorate those who were forced from their homeland 63 years ago.

Also some were carrying a large key symbolizing all those refugees who

still hold the key to their homes, not being allowed to return in

spite of UN resolutution 194 that clearly states that all the refugees

from 1948 must be allowed back and offered compensation.

The army had declared the village a closed military zone, trying to

prevent people from reaching the village by setting up closures on all

the roads around Bil'in. The army had also set up sementblocks and

barbed wire in front of the Eastern gate in order to prevent people

from reaching the gate. Hundreds of soldiers and border police had

lined up on the military post and around the fence.

Clashes erupted between army and protesters, and large amounts of tear

gas and sound bombs were used, in addition to sewage water sprayed at

the protesters. Many people suffered from tear gas inhalation, and

some were vomiting. Ahmed Abu Rahma was hit by a tear gas canister on

his arm, causing pain.

The tear gas set fire to the dry ground several times, and protesters

prevented it to spread. The demonstration lasted for about 2 hours.

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